Savannah Foundation Fellow Program

I. Welcome to the Savannah Foundation Fellow Program

Savannah Fellow is a comprehensive support program designed for visual artists seeking to build an international profile aligned with the U.S. O-1B Artist Visa. Whether you are self-taught, institutionally trained, newly emerging, or already exhibiting globally, we are here to help you shape a compelling, credible narrative that positions you as a candidate of extraordinary ability.

This guide outlines the materials, timelines, and strategic approaches needed to prepare a strong petition. Through one-on-one consultation, portfolio guidance, and curatorial insight, Savannah Fellow helps artists not only meet but exceed the expectations of immigration officers, curators, and future collaborators alike.

More than a visa pathway, Savannah Fellow is a fellowship for visibility, structure, and long-term growth.

Our Partner, Galerie Shibumi

Galerie Shibumi champions artists who have ventured into the art world through unconventional paths. Our doors are open to self-taught creators, formally trained visionaries, introverts, extroverts, and everyone in between. Many of the artists we support have not yet had access to traditional platforms or have struggled to communicate their vision through established institutional channels.

We see ourselves as disruptors in the art world, bridging the gap between underrepresented artists and the collectors, curators, and audiences who are hungry for new perspectives. We believe in the power of art to connect, inspire, and transform—and we are committed to fostering a community where all artists have the opportunity to shine.

Program Tiers Overview

The Savannah Fellow program is structured in three progressive tiers. Each level builds upon the last, offering artists a tailored mix of guidance, exposure, and concrete deliverables.

Tier 1 — Portfolio & Advisory

Fee: USD 4,500

• Strategic 1-on-1 consultation to map your path toward “extraordinary ability”
• A total of 3 Rounds of in-depth meetings to develop your preparation for O-1 B.
• 1st round: Artist Discovery Workshop (understanding your craft, visa timeline, work/project history, and recommendations for your next steps)
• 2nd round: Mid-progress Check (overview of existing materials, reviewing further requirements, developing supplementary case angles, and recommending additional media)
• 3rd round: Final Progress Consultation (summarizing your case, locking down profile, and conducting a final check-in)
• In-depth, personalized review of your CV, artist statement, and presentation material.
• O1 Visa Onboarding Guide Document
• Resource templates and organization tools to structure your application.
• Roughly 6 months to a year schedule, depending on the Artist’s journey.
• Yearly subscription to the newsletter of open call opportunities.

Ideal for artists in the early stages of their O-1B preparation or those seeking to clarify their international profile.

Tier 2 — Active Placement & PR

Fee: USD 8,000 Includes all Tier 1 services, plus:

• Guaranteed placement in a U.S. group or solo exhibition with Galerie Shibumi
• Press kit development and targeted media outreach
• 3–5 personalized letters of recommendation from respected arts professionals
• USCIS interview preparation document and Q&A example guidelines

Designed for artists ready to activate new opportunities in the U.S. market.

Tier 3 — Distinguished Fellowship

Fee: USD 12,000 Includes all Tier 1 and 2 services, plus:

• Multi-city exhibition plan in the U.S.
• Artist residency to enhance your CV and visa petition
• Feature in the Shibumi Annual Catalogue, distributed globally to curators, collectors, and institutions
• Ongoing representation for project and sales placements

Best suited for artists building toward sustained presence and recognition in the U.S. art world.

We review applications year-round. To learn more about how we can support your artistic journey and visa goals, submit an application through our online form.

Your art deserves an international stage. Let us help you get there!